Nicholas Sparks’ ‘Safe Haven’ Casts Julianne Hough, Josh Duhamel

Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel are looking for a “Safe Haven” in the latest big-screen adaptation of a Nicholas Sparks book.

According to the studio, Relativity Media, production will begin next month in Southport, North Carolina, with “The Cider House Rules” helmer Lasse Hallström set to direct. The studio is eyeing a February 8, 2013, release date.

“I’m thrilled that Josh and Julianne have agreed to come aboard ‘Safe Haven’ — it’s hard to think of an actor better-suited to play the character of Alex than Josh, and Julianne will bring a combination of vulnerability and strength to the role of Katie,” Sparks said in a statement. “They are both such talented and charismatic individuals — and best of all, they have tremendous personal chemistry, which is essential for this film.”

The film follows a young woman with a mysterious history who moves to a small North Carolina town. After an initial reluctance to form bonds in the town, she falls for Alex, a widow with two kids. However, her past comes back to haunt her and she must use love to deal with her personal struggles.

Hough will sit down with MTV News on Friday for Movie Awards Sneak Peek Week
, along with “Rock of Ages” castmate Diego Boneta and director Adam Shankman. Not only will she chat about her lead role in the film, but she’ll also debut an exclusive clip from the June 15 release.